When to Use a Resume Versus a Curriculum Vitae

The position the job applicant is seeking and what is customary for that field determines when to use a resume versus a curriculum vitae, find out when each is appropriate to use.

Everyone is generally pretty familiar with resumes, their purpose, formatting, and styles, but what about the more foreign type of portfolio document, the CV? CVs have various purposes depending on what type of field you are in, as with a resume it is equally important that they are completed correctly.

Resume or a Curriculum Vitae When Are They Used?

While these different documents have various purposes, it is still important to mention that much of the same information is included on both because they are both used with the intention of getting hired. Following the rules and guidelines to writing both of these types of documents will give you the most success during your job application process.

When you are applying for a job and are unsure of which form of career identification the organization is going to be expecting, it is better to be prepared. Do some research ahead of time on the type of position to see which form is typically accepted.

Resume Versus a Curriculum Vitae

As mentioned previously both documents contain similar information, but are socially accepted at different times and for varying purposes. These suggestions listed are general guidelines intended to help those applying for a job, you could always double-check with the company if you are unsure of which form you should use.

When should you use a Curriculum Vitae?
The toughest question that people are often confused by is when is it correct to use a CV instead of the typical resume? A CV is used most frequently in academia because it is much more descriptive than a resume as it goes into much greater depth with your skills and qualifications.

If you are applying to a graduate school or a job in research (no matter what the subject) the schools and businesses generally want to see your CV. This document will explain to these institutions all the hard work that you put into your studies and independent research endeavors.

Another reason that the curriculum vitae is used (especially in America) is when you are applying for an international job. In the United States, the resume continues to be the dominant form of identification during the job application process. However, in other countries outside the US, the CV is more widely used.

What is the difference between a resume and a CV?
Two major differences to briefly touch upon are the length and content of each document. A resume is typically no more than two pages (preferably one page) where a CV can be several pages or more in length. This difference has a lot to do with the depth of the content that is included in these documents.

While a resume focuses mainly on the types of job positions and volunteer opportunities that you became involved in, a CV describes all of your academic achievements, research participation, as well as your individual educational development.

Both documents are considered summaries of your professional life, but think of a CV as a less concise and more detailed resume centered around the publications and awards you may have received. For example, if you have published many abstracts and theses, you should list all relevant publications even if your CV carries on for several pages.

What should be included on your CV?
Your CV can be tricky to write since it is so foreign to many individuals, but there are certain items that should be included while writing and others that should be left out. Similar to a resume, your CV should include all of your basic contact information such as your name, address, phone numbers, email address, and any other important details about you.

Additionally, you should include all of your research, teaching experiences, professional associations, as well as any certifications and degrees you have received, preferably starting with your highest level. Any publications, talks, or papers that you have submitted to professional organizations to be published should also be listed.

A CV is both similar to and different from a resume, our goal was to help you more clearly understand when to use a resume versus a curriculum vitae. CV's can help demonstrate your hard work and commitment to research and academia and when presented impressively can help you obtain a position. Press Start to build one for free.